James and Louise of Speyside Cottages, putting a face behind their business. James moved to Dufftown attracted by the fresh air, open landscape and tremendous dog walks he and Dave (Sprocker, man’s best friend!) could enjoy. After meeting, James & Louise very quickly adventured, lived & started working together, literally building Speyside Cottages with its first development, The Milking Sheds. Louise moved from Aberdeen, attracted by Dufftown's way of life, & the potential to work in such a spectacular environment. It’s a relatively short journey from the city but it feels like a different world as you drive in, you can feel like the only person in the wild remoteness. They love to travel, good accommodation & experiencing new cultures is important. Sharing these elements from their region is key. By refurbishing old properties James & Louise know it inside & out as well as knowing they have re-purposed it for years to come. Creating homes each with a delight factor is key – These are homes they would love to stay in & want to share with others. Valuing the personal connection helps them gain satisfaction knowing guests have had an enjoyable & memorable stay.

Ben Shea provides a truly unique holiday experience in Scotland. Built in1873, Ben Shea is a typical Victorian Villa that hides an ultra-modern interior. Completed in August 2019, Ben Shea is fully renovated providing a well-equipped holiday home with private garden. We partnered with Go Home Smart to refurbish it sympathetically, making the most of its character, whilst integrating it with the most up to date technology, providing our guests with a truly unique Smart Home experience. On arrival the house welcomes you with automated motion based lighting and heating is pre-set to an ambient temperature. Light scenes and music are available in most rooms. Night mode guides you to the bathroom or kitchen when it’s dark. Light scenes, music & shading are controlled from 5 point switches in rooms or a central iPad. However you don’t need to alter anything if you prefer not to. Motion initiates a lot of your smart home features, so don’t worry about having to ‘learn’ the house! The first floor has an open plan living area with a fully-equipped kitchen, including dishwasher and washing machine and a cosy sitting room complete with wood-burning stove. The stunning original stone wall is enhanced by lighting options. The coffee table raises and extends simply to suit your dining needs from 2 to 6 people. Both shower rooms have a walk-in shower, basin and WC, the first floor shower room has motion based music and lighting. When it comes to the bedrooms the biggest features are their luxurious beds – which are the same as the Savoy! Each can be made up as 1 x Super King or 2 x Single beds (twin set up). Rooms are complemented with automated shading, inset speakers, & ambient temperature control. Towels and linen are in your rooms On the mezzanine floor Ben Shea has a snug garden room, which leads to the private garden, also with motion sensor lighting. A lovely peaceful spot to wind down with a refreshing drink after the day’s adventures.

In the heart of Speyside, enjoy the remote outdoors & wilderness with all the convenience of town amenities. As the Malt Whisky Capital, the famous Glenfiddich & Balvenie Distilleries are less than 1 mile to walk & many more a short drive. Typically a quiet town, Fife Street. converges at the iconic Clock Tower & crossroads. Be close to the action for Hogmanay, Highland Games & any event touring through Dufftown, or being held in the town centre. Scenic backdrops & trails on your doorsteps